William Donovan Obituary, Death – Billy Donovan, January 4th, 2023 On January 4, 2023, William J. “Billy” Donovan, 62, of Cicero died quietly at home. His parents were Theodore and Elizabeth (Ennis) Donovan, both from Syracuse. Billy is survived by his wife, Mary Beth (Jackson) Donovan, of 38 years; two daughters, Morgan (Devin) Mackie of New York City and Lauren Donovan of Cicero; two grandchildren, Kennedy Marilyn and Beau William Mackie; four siblings, Sally Silvaggio, Theodore (Christine) Donovan, Dale Luckette, and Patricia Nuzzo; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. His parents and brother Danny were also killed. If you’re in his orbit, you’re probably divided between sadness and appreciation for being a part of Billy D’s universe. On the golf course, lake, basketball court, Pastimes, Lakeshore YCC, and even his driveway, he welcomed everyone.
Billy D coordinated Donovan Family Fun Days and unexpected army gatherings. There was always music, food, photographs, tales, full (never half) glasses, his official jokes, and embraces (rumor has it he was a sentimental soul). You felt better after spending time with him. Billy is originally from Syracuse. His north-side pals remain dear decades later. Billy met people he would never forget at St. John the Baptist, Assumption, OCC, and Oswego. Billy worked for National Grid for 40 years. If you ask Billy, “How do you know Billy?” the responses will range across years and zip codes, and each person holds a special place in his heart. Despite the fact that he has shared his heart with numerous others, Mary Beth has been his real love and best friend since they were 13 years old.
Their love and companionship created many “BEST DAYS EVER” over the years. Billy is ecstatic about Lauren, Morgan, and Devin. Billy enjoyed spending time with his daughters, as well as his expanding family and friends. His granddaughters, Kennedy and Beau, filled his heart in unthinkable ways, while Sunnie and Bruce, his four-legged grandsons, were gifts. Billy’s gift will enrich family memories for the rest of their lives. Billy’s funeral mass will be held on January 11, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s/St. Brigid’s Church, 216 North Lowell Ave., Syracuse, NY. THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.), North Syracuse, NY, will be open on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, from 3 to 6 p.m. Flowers can be replaced with donations to Golisano Children’s Hospital or St. Patrick’s/St. Brigid’s Church. Hug your loved ones firmly in Billy’s memory.